Back in early May, Ford Performance gave us our first glimpse at the all-new Ford Ranger Raptor T1+ desert racer that’s set to compete at the upcoming 2025 Dakar Rally, which takes place in January. At that time, the automaker also revealed half of its driver lineup for that grueling off-road race, which will consist of Carlos Sainz Sr. and Nani Roma, plus two previously-unnamed pilots. Now, we’re learning the other two names that will help round out what will be Ford’s official foray into the famous Dakar Rally.
Mitch Guthrie Jr. and Kellon Walch will be joining Sainz Sr. and Roma behind the wheel of the all-new Dakar Rally Ford Ranger Raptor T1+ this coming January, Ford Performance has revealed. Guthrie Jr. has a copious amount of off-road racing experience that includes a victory at the King of the Hammers, a class win at the Baja 1000, and successful stints behind the wheel of UTVs as well. Ford notes that Guthrie’s experience in short course off-road racing should be a great fit for the Dakar Rally as it seeks to rack up stage wins along the way.
“We’re excited to welcome Mitch Guthrie to the Ford Performance family,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance. “The difficult terrain and conditions in off-road racing demand everything from a driver and Mitch’s achievements speak for themselves. He will be a great addition to the team, and we can’t wait to see him push the limits of the Ford Raptor T1+ as we take on one of the most grueling races on the planet in Dakar.”
“Since I was younger, I’ve always been interested in Ford,” Guthrie added. “Originally, when I was going to school and before I could even drive, I saw the Raptor come out and it was my dream car. Eventually, thankfully, I was able to buy one in 2019. I still have it and still really enjoy it. Ford is such a well-known brand and synonymous with the United States, so that was of course a dream of mine to be part of the brand. To now be in the T1+ category, driving for Ford…it’s all coming full circle and is really a dream come true for me. I’m really excited to be part of the Ford family.”
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